International Research Centre Launched

Today the New
South Wales Government announced an International Centre for Balanced Land Use to
be based at the University of Newcastle's flagship research hub, the Newcastle
Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER).

The centre, a
$1 million collaborative initiative between the NSW Government and the
University, will provide independent research to develop a clear evidence-based
policy framework to solve the complex challenges of balanced land use.

University of
Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Caroline McMillen, said the University's
partnership with the Government would deliver an initiative of fundamental
importance to communities in the Hunter, the state and around the world.

"This
partnership positions the University and NIER in a lead role to contribute to
the Government's policy framework around how we use our land and assist our communities
and industries to respond to the challenges of issues such as food and energy security
within the context of environmental and economic stability.

"The Centre
will bring together the collective strengths of government and academia with
national and international partners to address this issue of global
significance. It will be led by a Global Innovation Chair to be recruited from
the world's foremost academics in the field," Professor McMillen said.

This
announcement comes on the back of significant recent industry and government
collaboration for NIER including $30 million for technologies for abatement of
methane emissions from coal mining and $3.2 million for a research hub in
advanced technologies for Australian iron ore.

NIER
Director, Dr Alan Broadfoot, said NIER's strength in providing global research leadership
on the rapidly evolving issues connected with energy and resources continued to
grow.

"NIER is a
national hub for energy and resources research with an international reputation
for delivering innovative solutions to global challenges. The new Centre places
the institute in a strong position to drive with the Government rigorous and
independent research in balanced land use with real impact.

"Our aim is
to achieve significant gains in energy efficiency and resource productivity to
support Australia's competitive and sustainable goals. A balanced approach to
land use is critical to meet the challenges facing communities locally and
globally," Dr Broadfoot said.For more information visit